Book Club: The Next Chapter (2023)

Book Club: The Next Chapter is the kind of sunny, good-for-the-soul comedy that understands its greatest special effect is watching four brilliant actresses enjoy each other’s company—and inviting us along for the ride. Diane Keaton, Jane Fonda, Candice Bergen, and friends turn a glamorous Italian getaway into a fizzy mix of romance, reinvention, and perfectly timed mishaps, all played with warmth instead of cruelty. The vibe is breezy and postcard-pretty, with laughter that comes from personality and chemistry more than punchlines, and a sweetness that sneaks up on you when you least expect it. If you’re looking for edgy satire or big twists, this isn’t that—but if you want a charming, funny vacation movie that feels like spending an evening with people you actually like, it’s delightful company.

Book Club: The Next Chapter wants to be a breezy, feel-good “second-act” rom-com with four beloved stars cutting loose on an Italian getaway, and on that level it mostly delivers postcard scenery, friendly chemistry, and a few charming moments. The problem is the movie treats its cast like a greatest-hits playlist: lots of cute setups, not much substance, and a story so thin and predictable you can practically see the next beat arriving a mile away. The humor often leans corny and occasionally feels a bit patronizing, as if it’s trying too hard to reassure you that you’re having fun. If you’re here for low-stakes comfort viewing and you enjoy these actresses, you’ll likely be fine; if you want sharp writing, real surprises, or a comedy with bite, this trip may feel like a long layover.